Theatres in Stratford East, London

The Theatre Royal - The Borough Theatre / Rex Cinema - The Empire Palace of Varieties - The Broadway Theatre / Gaumont Cinema - The Grove Picture House - The Picturehouse, Gerry Raffles Square

Above - An aerial view of Stratford East showing (34) The Borough Theatre, (27) The Empire Theatre, (30) The Theatre Royal, and (31) The Town Hall - From an article in the ILN of February 6th 1909 on a proposal to create a new City area called Eastminster.

The Theatre Royal, Gerry Raffles Square, Stratford East

Formerly Salway-road, Angel-lane, Stratford, Later Theatre Square, Stratford

Above - The Theatre Royal, Stratford East in September 2014 - Courtesy Paul Bland.

The Theatre Royal, Stratford East was built in 1884 and was designed by J. G. Buckle who also helped with the designs of the Royal English Opera House in Cambridge Circus, London, now the Palace Theatre. The Theatre Royal, Stratford is the only surviving example of a London suburban Theatre with an un-cantilevered auditorium supported by columns. The exterior of the building is plain, to say the least, but the auditorium, built on three levels, stalls and two balconies, is far more attractive.

Right - A poster for Arthur Lloyd and his wife Katty King appearing at the Theatre Royal, Stratford East, three years after the Theatre opened, on May the 25th 1887 - The poster is for a Benefit for Joseph Ellis during the time that Fred Thomas was manager there, and is from a large collection of original Lloyd Posters collected since the mid 1800s by members of the family. To see all these posters click the Poster Index here.

The Theatre opened on Wednesday the 17th of December 1884 with a production of the Bulwer Lytton's play 'Richelieu', and three days later the ERA printed a review of the new building and the opening night production in their 20th of December 1884 edition saying:- 'On Wednesday evening last a new theatre was opened in Selway-road, (sic) Angel-lane, Stratford, giving promise of abundant amusement to dwellers in the far East. The outside of the building we must describe as ugly in the extreme, but the interior presents a very pretty and attractive appearance. The theatre, which it is estimated will accommodate about one thousand persons, has been built by Messrs David G. Laing and Son from designs and under the direction of the well-known architect Mr James George Buckle, A.R.I.B.A., of Adam-street, Ade1phi...

Above - The Theatre Royal, Stratford East in August 2009 - Photo ML

Above - The auditorium of the Theatre Royal, Stratford East in January 1998 - Courtesy Ted Bottle

...The lines of the house are so arranged that a good view of the stage is obtained from every seat, and the auditorium is ventilated by means of a central sunlight and large extraction cowl over the gallery. A similar cowl ventilates the stage, and there is ample provision for fresh air.

The means of exit are ample, comprising two from each circle and three from the pit. The main exits are 9ft. wide, with four additional, each 4ft. 6in. wide. There are two staircases to each circle 4f t. 6in. wide, and constructed with fireproof materials and situated outside the walls of the auditorium.

Left and Right -The main entrance and exit to and from the stalls, circle, and the bar of the Theatre Royal, Stratford East in August 2009. Photo ML

The theatre has been built in accordance with all the recent regulations imposed on metropolitan theatres, and the woodwork throughout, not excepting the seats, has been coated with Astropy's patent cyanite, a fireproof solution which has been recommended by Captain Shaw.

Above - The auditorium of the Theatre Royal, Stratford East in January 1998 - Courtesy Ted Bottle

The interior fittings are of a very elaborate and elegant description, but in truth it must be said that the approaches at present are in an exceedingly rough state, and that there is pervading the place a smell of paint which is anything but refreshing. Messrs Vaughan and Brown, gas engineers, of Farringdon-road, have fitted for the auditorium one of their patent ventillating sun burners, and have supplied polished brass brackets, in Queen Anne style, for the vestibule and corridors. On the prompt side of the stage they have fitted an index plate to govern the whole of the house in different sections, and have fitted a 300-light meter for the stage, and a 100-light ditto for the front of the house. The large illumination for the outside is also their work. The estimated cost of the building is between £3,000 and £4,000...

Above - The Theatre Royal, Stratford East in September 2014 - Courtesy Paul Bland

Above - The Theatre Royal, Stratford East in August 2009 - Photo ML

...On the opening night there was a full attendance, the play presented by the lessee, Mr W. Charles Dillon, being Bulwer Lytton's Richelieu, with the following cast :-

Louis the Thirteenth Mr ARCHIBALD GRATSDELL
Gaston, Duke of Orleans Mr A. MUNRO
Baradas Mr W. INNES
Cardinal Richelieu Mr W. CHARLES DILLON
The Chevalier de Mauprat Mr FREDERICK THOMAS
De Beringen Mr J. KERR
Joseph Mr CHARLES HORSMAN
Huguet Mr ARTHUR CLEVELAND
Francois Miss GEORGINA MANSFIELD
Julie de Mortemar Miss BLANCHE ELLIOTT
Marion de Lorme Miss NELLIE HORSMAN

Left - The auditorium and stage of the Theatre Royal, Stratford East in January 1998 - Courtesy Ted Bottle.

Mr Dillon won much applause. He worked under difficulties, and in one important scene had to interrupt the action of the play in order to reprove some inattentive gods who were appeasing their appetites. At the end of the act Mr Dillon very properly delivered the dwellers on high a lecture on the sin of cracking nuts, and it is to be hoped they will profit by his very earnest reproof. "You treat me fairly," said Mr Dillon, "and I will treat you fairly, and will give you good entertainment; but I certainly will not have the beautiful lines of this play spoiled and my artists insulted by your rude behaviour." The De Mauprat of Mr F. Thomas was a really fine performance, and Miss Elliott must be complimented on a good impersonation of Julie de Mortemar. Her presence was very attractive, and a sergeant of police who took a seat next to us remarked in confidence "if that 'ed of 'air's hall 'er hown, sir, it's a very fine one, and she ought to be proud on it." Mr Charles Horsman made a satisfactory Joseph, and a compliment may well be paid to Miss Georgina Mansfield for her impersonation of Francois. A comedietta concluded the entertainment, Miss Lucy Hawthorne contributing some songs. Hamlet and Richard III are in rehearsal, and on Boxing Night is promised a "grand production" of Proof.'

The above text in quotes is from the ERA, 20th of December 1884.

Above - The Rear Stalls of the Theatre Royal, Stratford East in January 1998 - Courtesy Ted Bottle

In the 1950s and 60s Joan Littlewood made the Theatre Royal internationally famous. She also wrote and directed her masterpiece there, 'Oh! What A Lovely War' in 1963. Gerry Raffles Square is named after Littlewood's professional and personal partner. And it was he who personally prevented the bulldozers from demolishing the Theatre during the redevelopment of the square.

In the 1970s the Theatre Royal was a regular and popular venue for a wide variety of Sunday entertainment put on for local people. One of these regulars was Rex Jameson AKA Mrs Shufflewick, one of the last of the Music Hall style performers. To hear a recording of Mrs Shufflewick's act at the New Black Cap in Camden Town in 1972 Click here.

Right - Mrs. Shufflewick, here photographed for the Windmill Theatre Souvenir Programme No. 37 in 1964.

In 1992 the auditorium of the Theatre was restored to its former glory and can now accommodate up to 460 people.

There is also a long bar which stretches alongside the stage and is open to the public and artistes alike, and is frequently home to live music and comedy events.

Left - Gerry Raffles Square, Stratford East, in August 2009, showing the Theatre Royal and Picturehouse. Photo M.L.

The site where the Theatre stands, now called Gerry Raffles Square, has been modernised and improved no end and although the Theatre's facade is still a little bland this is ofset by the bars, cafes, and the Picturehouse Cinema which now surround it.

You may like to visit the Theatre's own Website here.

Arthur Lloyd is known to have performed at the Theatre Royal, Stratford East in 1885 and 1887, and he and his company performed his own Play 'Ballyvogan at the Theatre in November 1889.' There is more information and a review of this early Stratford production here.

Above - Advertisement for Arthur Lloyd and Company at the Theatre Royal, Stratford - From The Era 27 Jun 1885.

The Borough Theatre and Opera House, 361-375 Stratford High Street, Stratford East

Later - The Rex Cinema / Rex Nightclub / Sync Nightclub and Concert Venue / Zap Space

Above - The former Borough Theatre, Stratford East in August 2009 - Photo M.L.

The Borough Theatre, Stratford East was built for Albert Fredericks who was also the proprietor of the Theatre Royal at the time. The Foundation Stone for the Theatre was laid by the Mayor of West Ham, Alderman G. Hay, on Monday the 28th of October 1895.

Right - The opening night programme for 'King Henry IV' at the Borough Theatre, Stratford East on Monday August the 31st 1896 - Click to see entire programme.

The Theatre was constructed by Perry and Co., to the designs of the renowned Theatre Architect Frank Matcham, who said, at a Tea held at the Langthorne Rooms after the laying of the foundation stone, that:- 'the theatre when built would be found to be one of the finest he had ever designed. As to dimensions, he said, speaking from memory, that the pit would be 70ft. wide and 70ft. deep, the stage 85ft. wide and 45ft. deep. The stalls, pit-stalls, and Pit will hold 1,500 people, or about 500 more than the Grand, Islington can accommodate in the corresponding seats. The upper circle will seat about 500 and the dress-circle about 200. There will be a very large and commodious gallery, which will seat 1,000 persons. The theatre, which will be lighted by electricity, is practically isolated, and in case of fire could be emptied in three minutes.' - Frank Matcham, 28th of October 1895 - Reported in the ERA, 2nd November 1895.

The Theatre opened as the Borough Theatre and Opera House, ten months later, on Monday August the 31st 1896 with a production of 'Henry IV' (See programme right). The Manager of the Theatre for its opening, and for 14 years afterwards, was Frank Rothsay who you can read about below.

Shortly before the Theatre opened the Standard reported on the building in their 28th of August 1896 edition saying:- ' Many of the suburbs already have theatres which for comfort, and even luxury, compare favourably with those of the Metropolis. The latest addition is at Stratford, where Mr. Albert Fredericks, of the Theatre Royal, has erected a handsome new building, capable of accommodating 3500 persons.

The Borough Theatre and Opera House occupies a commanding position in the High-street, at a corner opposite Stratford Market Station. The exterior is Elizabethan in design, and a pleasing effect is produced by the admixture of stone and ornamental panels and busts with dark red brick work. Designed by Mr. Frank Matcham the arrangement and equipment of the interior leave nothing to be desired...

Above - The original Foyer of the Borough Theatre, Stratford East - From a programme for 'Hamlet' and School For Scandal' at the Theatre in February 1925.

...A lofty vestibule, richly decorated, gives access to the dress circle and the pit and orchestra stalls. The dress-circle contains four rows of seats with places for one hundred and seventy persons. At each end is a small private box which may be reached by a corridor running along the back of the dress-circle, and affording access to the foyer, the cloak-rooms, and a handsomely-decorated saloon. The upper circle, which contains seven rows of seats, with a promenade at the rear, is immediately over the corridor, and is reached by a wide staircase. Above is the gallery, with seating capacity for 1200 people...

Above - The original Frank Matcham Auditorium of the Borough Theatre, Stratford East - From a programme for 'Hamlet' and School For Scandal' at the Theatre in February 1925.

Above - A Painting depicting the original Frank Matcham Auditorium of the Borough Theatre, Stratford East by George Richmond who says 'This is the Borough Theatre of 1896 portrayed during a run of Gilbert and Sullivan's "Mikado". The colours used were based on a contemporary article on this page. Click for an Index to all of George Richmond's Paintings on this site.

...Thanks to the cantilever process principle, there are no pillars to obstruct the view, and the seats are so arranged that there can be no difficulty in seeing the stage from any part of the house. Seventy-eight easy chairs, upholstered in dark crimson velvet, form the orchestra stalls. Behind these are six rows of pit stalls, and behind these again seventeen rows of benches constituting the pit. A dado of glazed bricks lines the walls, and everything has been done in this as in other parts of the theatre to secure the comfort and convenience of visitors.

The stage is large and has been fitted with every modern appliance for the manipulation of scenery, and for the comfort of players. The dressing-rooms are numerous, and are so arranged that an exit may be made without crossing the stage. Each room is comfortably furnished, and has hot and cold water laid on. On each side of the proscenium is a facade of boxes, the design and decoration of which are very artistic.

Right - A programme for 'Hamlet' and School For Scandal' at the Borough Theatre, Stratford in February 1925 - Click to see entire programme.

The drop scene represents Epping Forest in the days of Robin Hood, as well as in the days of nineteenth century picnics. Both skill and taste have been shown in the decorations. The theatre is lighted throughout with electricity, every care has been taken to secure proper ventilation, and the safety of the public is assured by the precautions against panic and fire. In every respect the new theatre gave the greatest satisfaction to a large number of people who were invited to a private inspection Yesterday afternoon.' - The Standard, 28th of August 1896.

Above - The former Borough Theatre, Stratford East in September 2014 - Courtesy Paul Bland

Shortly after the Theatre opened the Penny Illustrated Paper and Illustrated Times of London printed a small article about the building in their September 05, 1896 edition saying:- 'The New Stratford Theatre. In the way of business I had an invitation to view the new Borough Theatre and Opera House in High Street, Stratford, E. I thought, as I journeyed East, of Chaucer's character who spoke French-

French she spake full fayre and fetisly,
After the scole of Stratforde-atte-Bowe,
For French of Paris was to her unknowe.

When I reached the theatre I found a magnificent building, planned to accommodate 3500 playgoers. On Monday Mr. Beerbohm Tree opened the new theatre with "Henry IV.," and on Wednesday "Trilby" was given.

Right - A Programme for The Royal Carl Rosa Opera Company at the Borough Theatre and Opera House, Stratford in 1922.

On Monday evening the unctuous humour of Mr. Tree as Falstaff, the rough vigour of Mr. T. B. Thalberg as Prince Harry, the earnestness of Mr. Fuller Mellish as Hotspur, the quiet fun of Mr. Lionel Brough as Bardolph, the pretty singing of Miss Marion Evans as Lady Mortimer, and the delicate charm of Mrs. Tree as Lady Percy, all in turn received acknowledgment.

And, after Mrs. Tree had been presented with some costly blossoms, Mr. Tree led forward Mr. Albert Fredericks, the manager; and Mr. Frank Matcham the architect; and to one and all the audience wished success. It is a splendidly constructed theatre, with seats arranged so that every visitor can see, and exit that will enable the house to be cleared in a few seconds. The decorations are not surpassed by any central London theatre. Everywhere in the suburbs new theatres are being built, and old ones are enlarged. The little Kilburn Theatre - a transformed Town Hall — will soon be rebuilt by Messrs Morell, Mouillot, and Watts.'

The above text in quotes was first published in the Penny Illustrated Paper and Illustrated Times of London, September 05, 1896.

Above - The former Borough Theatre, Stratford East in September 2014 - Courtesy Paul Bland

The Building News and Engineering Journal also reported on the opening of the Theatre in their September the 4th 1896 edition saying:- 'The new Borough Theatre, built from designs by Mr. Frank Matcham, was opened on Monday night. The site faces the High-street and Stratford Market Station. The theatre is built on the cantilever principle without internal columns, and is seated for 3,500 persons. The exterior is Elizabethan in style, and is carried out in dark red bricks with stone dressings. The stalls will seat 72 persons, the pit-stalls 200, the dress-circle about 170, the upper circle between 600 and 700, the pit 800, and the gallery, which is said to be the largest in London, 1,400. The stage is 45ft. by 35ft., with a clear width at the footlights of 30ft., and dressing-rooms, six boxes, refreshment buffets, and a crush-room are also provided. Messrs. Perry and Co., of Bow, the builders, have carried out the work, under the superintendence of the clerk of the works, Mr. Cropper. The decorations were executed by Messrs. De Jong and Co., of Camden Town. The electric-light intallation has been the work of Messrs. Sharp and Kent, of Westminster; the fire appliances have been supplied by Messrs. Buckley and Beach, of Chelsea; Messrs. Dean and Co., of Birmingham, have upholstered the building; and Messrs. Harper and Broadbridge have supplied the chairs.'

The above text in quotes was first published in the Building News and Engineering Journal, September 4th 1896.

Above - The former Borough Theatre, Stratford East in August 2009 - Photo M.L.

The Borough Theatre was radically altered for Cinema use in March 1933 when Matcham's auditorium was removed and a new art deco auditorium, seating 1,889, was built in its place, the exterior was left mostly intact except for the corner entrance which was re-faced (See image above).

The renamed Theatre, now a super cinema complete with its own Wurlitzer organ reopened on the 5th of November the same year as the Rex Cinema, run by Essell Cinemas. The Organ is today situated at the Royalty Cinema in Bowness-on-Windermere.

There is a very nice photograph of the auditorium of the Rex Cinema here.

Right - Extant signage on the former Borough Theatre, Stratford East in September 2014 - Courtesy Paul Bland.

The Rex Cinema closed on the 11th of January 1969 and the building was then converted for Bingo use. This lasted until 1974 when the Theatre briefly became a Cinema again showing Asian Films, but this wasn't to last and the building then stood unused and derelict for 21 years until 1996 when it was given a new lease of life.

With help from a local Government regeneration fund, business man, Malcolm Campbell, set about bringing the building back to life. He had the stage house and dressing room block demolished and the rest of the building restored to its former 1934 grandeur. The new building was used for live concerts and as a nightclub. Unfortunately this was only to last for ten years before the nightclub closed on the 12th of October 2007 when the owners went into receivership.

The building was then taken over by new management who refurbished the building and reopened it as a Concert venue called the Rex Music Arena on the 29th of August 2009, but this was to be short lived too as it closed at the end of the same year, although it was occasionally reopened for special events.

In October 2012 the building, owned by Newham Council since 2010, reopened after further refurbishment, as a nightclub and concert venue called Sync . The new venue could accommodate some 2,500 people and staged events such as comedy, stand up, boxing matches, concerts, and was occasionally used as a venue for the 'Secret Cinema'. However, new Licensing restrictions were imposed on the venue in April 2013 by Newham Council to stop crime and anti-social behaviour.

The restrictions meant that the venue could not operate after 2am and the main auditorium was only to be used for a licensable activity after receiving consent from the police. For any event running past midnight at the venue prior consent from the Council's Anti-Social Behaviour Special Operations Team would need to be obtained.

Left - A Google StreetView Image showing the Zap Space Trampoline Park situated in the former Borough Theatre / Rex Cinema, Stratford East in March 2019 - Click to Interact.

Sync Nightclub was later closed and the building then remained empty and unused for some time until the building was eventually converted into a three floor trampoline centre called Zap Space which opened in October 2017, however, this was closed in March 2020 due the Coronavirus Pandemic and has never reopened.

There is more information and images for the Borough Theatre below, but if you have any more information or images for this Theatre that you are willing to share please Contact me.

Above - The rear elevation of the former Borough Theatre, Stratford East in August 2009 - Photo M.L.

Three contemporary Postcards of the Borough Theatre, Stratford East

Above - The Borough Theatre, Stratford - From an early postcard

Above - The Borough Theatre, Stratford East - From an early postcard

Above - The Borough Theatre, Stratford East - From a 1915 postcard

The Borough Theatre - From The Romance of London Theatres by Ronald Mayes

THE Borough Theatre, Stratford, was erected in 1896 for Albert Fredericks from the designs of the architect, Frank Matcham, and was known at first as "The Borough Theatre and Opera House," Stratford. It stands opposite Stratford Market Station, quite near to the old Vegetable and fruit market.

Right - The Borough Theatre Stratford East.

Stratford has been immortalised by, Chaucer, in the prologue to the "Canterbury Tales," in words which imply that in his time it was a well-known place of education for young ladies. Describing the prioress, Chaucer says :

"French she spake full fayre and fetisly,
After the scole of Stratforde-atte-Bowe,
For French of Paris was to her unknowe."

The theatre was opened on August 31st, 1896, and for this occasion Sir Herbert Tree and his company from the Haymarket Theatre were specially engaged.

The production was the first part of Shakespeare's "King Henry IV.," in which Holman Clark took the role of King Henry, Tree that of Sir John Falstaff, Sir Gerald du Maurier that of Poius, and Mrs. Tree that of Lady Percy. This was followed a few days later by "Trilby," in which Tree took the part of Svengali.

Right from its commencement down to the present day the theatre has been very successful. The policy has been to stage drama with a pantomime at Christmas time, and to engage the best actors and actresses possible. At one time "East is East and West is West," and "Never the twain shall meet," was applicable to the entertainment world of London, as well as to colour and race. The type of show produced in the East End of London was widely different to West End productions. To-day, however, the style is very similar -- in many cases West End companies go to the suburbs either before or after their main run, and the Stratford Theatre has ever been to the fore in securing first-class shows.

Many famous artists have appeared there, including Henry, Irving and Ellen Terry, Fred Terry and Julia Neilson, Matheson Lang, Sybil Thorndike, Mrs. Patrick Campbell, Sir John Martin-Harvey, Mr. and Mrs. Kendal, Seymour Hicks, Lewis Waller and many others. Christmas "pantos" have seen amongst others Marie Lloyd and Little Tich.

It was towards the end of last century that Fredericks, the manager of the Borough Theatre, Stratford, tried to get an injunction to prevent Waller canceling an engagement with him. There had been some competition between Waller and Beerbohm Tree in producing "The Three Musketeers." Fredericks failed to get his injunction and Waller managed to get his play out before Tree, and after a trial run at the Metropole, in Camberwell, was put on at the Globe.

Left - The partly removed stage house of The former Borough Theatre, Stratford East in August 2009 - Photo M.L.

The theatre is now under the management of Fred. Fredericks. It says much for the policy of those in charge, that the house can keep its head above water with the legitimate drama. The theatre is tastefully decorated in old ivory and gold, with seats and carpets of a dark red.

Text from 'The Romance of London Theatres' by Ronald Mayes - From a programme for the The Astoria Theatre, London 1930.

A Chat with Frank Rothsay, Manager of the Borough Theatre, Stratford East from 1896 to 1910

From the The Era - Saturday 01 June 1901

Away up north Mr Frank Rothsay is ever to be found at his post at the Borough Theatre, Stratford. Mr Rothsay has had an extraordinarily varied experience of the profession in all its branches, and he knows "the ropes" thoroughly. He began his career as an actor in the country, when salaries were rather smaller than they are now, and when the ''ghost" on Friday night was frequently shy. "Ups and downs." says Mr Rothsay, "why I had nothing else in the beginning. And the 'downs' were more frequent than the 'ups.' Still, it is all in a lifetime, so what does it matter so long as you eventually get out of the wood. Of course, I was mad to act, and had to put up with the struggles. They were pretty frequent, too. I often wonder it they are as bad today for the young actor as they were in those years of long ago. We did go through the mill, I can tell you - I expect it did us good - especially when we got stranded and came to town on our luggage, when we had any. Yes, I can remember the time when I hadn't any to speak of, and walked to the village of London from the Theatre Royal, Ever-so-far-away."

Right - Frank Rothsay, Manager of the Borough Theatre, Stratford East from its opening in 1896 until 1910 - From The Era, 1st of June 1901.

To look at Mr Rothsay nobody would think that his early training and battles with Dame Fortune had done him any harm. A Londoner by birth - he comes from Gower-street - Mr Rothsay's father hailed from Aberdeen, while his mother was an Englishwoman. Originally intended for commerce, Mr Rothsay belonged to an amateur acting club, and made his first bow at St. George's Hall, in Regent-street, as Bob Brierley, in The Ticket-of-Leave Man. An actor of his acquaintance advised him to go into the country to get experience, and so off he went, and after touring about with more or less success he filled in three seasons at Norwich, and later enlisted under the banner of Mr Charles Calvert. "I got an introduction," adds Mr Rothsay, "to Mr Horace Wigan, who was then the lessee and manager of the Mirror Theatre, Holborn. He revived The Hidden Hand, originally done at the Olympic in 1864. This took place April 24th, 1875. A month later was produced The Detective, from the French by Clement Scott and E. Manuel, which was a good play, but rather too long. In the cast were F. H. Macklin, David Fieher, Horace Wigan, Atkins Fred Irish. H. Leigh, Mrs St. Henry, Louisa Moore, and Miss Emden. Later, by the way, I went out on tour to play the heavy part, and I think I did fairly well. Anyhow, I got an offer for London again, and joined Miss Annie Lafontaine for An Unequal Match at the Charing-cross Theatre. Miss Lafontaine was a pupil of Miss Amy Sedgwick, by the way. It was well cast, and the season was pretty good. Next I went to the Theatre Royal, Richmond - 'on the green' - you knew the old house. Ah! John Russel was the manager and lessee. Poor Fred Stimson was in the east, and so was Mark Melford. We played Rip Van Winkle - everybody played Rip in those days, and we had a good time. After Rip, to London again and the Globe Theatre, which was managed by one of the best men I ever knew - the late Edgar Bruce. A piece called Percy, by Leonard Towne, which was not a success, was done; but Mr Bruce was evidently satisfied with my work, for he was good enough to say that whenever he had another theatre I should have an engagement if I wrote in to him. Besides Percy, I ought to have said that we played Vesta's Temple, with W. J. Hill in the lead.

Well then I went on tour, and met with many adventures, but not much fortune. I was training again - I did not know it then. I was not conscious of the vast amount of good I was gaining for myself, as I have since been assured I was getting, but that don't matter. I do remember, however, that I was almost at my last gasp when one day, walking down Villiers street, Strand, I met Edgar Bruce again. I hailed him, and he recollected his promise. He had just taken the Royalty, by arrangement with Mr Charles Wyndham, to put on a play which the latter had secured, called Blue Blood, by George R. Sims. This was afterwards christened Crutch and Toothpick, and was first presented at the little house in Dean-street on April 14th, 1879. I played the Assistant from Lewis and Allenby's, as the actor originally engaged, poor chap, fell ill and died in Charing-Cross Hospital; for I must tell you that there was really no part for me when Mr Bruce engaged me, except that I was to consider myself understudy for Lytton Sothern. Augustus Harris was the business or acting manager, and when I explained my business, he said, 'Well, you are just in time. Lytton Sothern's not here, so you can go and read his part. It is interesting to be able to recall that Augustus Harris, with whom I had many dealings later, was the acting-manager, his brother Charles was the stage-manager, Pottinger Stephens was the general author of the house, and Edward Solomon was the musical director.

After this I remained at the house for Miss Kate Lawler and made myself useful. For Instance, Mr Edward Righten, who was playing the chief part in Mr Robert Fleece's play called Parlours, fell ill. The management did not know what to do, and came to me to take the part at about twenty minutes' notice. I had to have my moustache shaved off in the theatre, and made up at once and went on. Not only that, but I played the character right through the run."

Mr Rothsay is commendably proud of this fact, and relates many anecdotes of the Royalty adventures. He recalls incidents, too, in connection with Jo, in which piece he scored under Miss Jennie Lee for no less than fourteen engagements at different periods. At the Royalty Theatre after Parlours came Bow Bells, one of the last pieces Henry J. Byron wrote. But, of course, in between came Venus, Balloonacy, and Midge, in which Miss Jennie Lee acted. With Bow Bells, Popsy, by Sydney Grundy, was presented, and then came Don Juan. Peggy, a clever play, by Joseph Mackay, Feb. 14th, 1881, did not catch on, and The Member for Slocum, from Le Supplice d'un Homme, came out from the pen of George R. Sims, which had been previously adapted, by-the-way, by John Oxenford as The Cleft Stick.

"After that I went on tour with Miss Lawler," Mr Rothsay explains. " Mr Cecil Raleigh, you know, was with us during the greater part of the time. Yes, he has been many things in is his day. When I left Miss Lawler, I went to Plymouth, under Holt and Wilmot for the first tour of Youth, from the Lane. We played it six weeks in that town. Next I went to Bath, when I got a letter from Augustus Harris to join him as private secretary at the Lane. I was with him on three different occasions, beginning first in 1882. I had a tour with a play called Black and White, written by Wilkie Collins, and then the Lane again; and then Eliot Galer at the Opera House, Leicester, and back to London once more to serve under John S. Clarke, at the Strand Theatre, in Cousin Johnny and other pieces.

Mr Rothsay has been actor, acting-manager, and stage-manager in his day, and is equal to all three now. His various engagements with Sir Augustus Harris carried him up to 1889, and he went to the Strand in 1890. He has played more parts than he can remember - but, then, that is the way in the theatrical world. After John S. Clarke in town and country he went to Arthur Blackmore, to help him when he put on Morocco Bound, at the Shaftesbury. Then he went to the Duke of York's, and later to Miss Cissie Graham, for the tour of All Abroad, as well as its production at the Criterion.

"I forgot to tell you of my engagement as manager for the Cagliostromantheum, hard by Trafalgar-square. It was an idea that should have done well. We gave an entertainment of a kind between the St. George's Hall and the best of the variety style of work. Well, the time was evidently not ripe, and so I went off to manage the Munich Theatre, in the German Exhibition at Earl's-court. After that a tour with Wilfred Clarke, of A New York Divorce, and a few short engagements, and, finally, the Borough Theatre, Stratford, in 1896, where, as you see, I still am, and that is all."

Mr Rothsay has an airy way of saying "that is all," but the things he has passed through and the incidents he relates - not for publication at present - would fill a small volume. Quite unassuming, Mr Rothsay knows his business thoroughly, and has made himself a great favourite up Stratford way.

The above article was first published in the ERA, 1st of June 1901.

The Empire Palace of Varieties, 55 Broadway, Stratford East

Above - A Sketch of the New Empire Palace, Broadway, Stratford East - From The ERA, 25 of March 1899 - To see more of these sketches click here.

The Empire Palace of Varieties was built by Messrs George Longden and Sons of Sheffield to the designs of the respected Theatre architect W. G. R. Sprague. The Theatre opened on Easter Monday 1899 with a Variety show featuring Eugen Sandow, Mark Melford, Ruby Verdi, the Gotham Comedy Quartet, Colby and Way, and many others, (more on this below). Shortly before the Theatre opened the ERA printed a review of the new building in their 25th of March 1899 edition saying:- This handsome and commodious new theatre of varieties, which is to be opened on Easter Monday, has been erected by the London District Empire Palaces, Limited, of which the chairman is Mr H. E. Moss, and the managing-director Mr Oswald Stoll. The new building is situated in the Broadway, and considering that there exists no other hall of varieties in Stratford - a district as thickly populated as any around central London, the promoters of the undertaking have every reason to feel sanguine as to the success of the New Empire Palace of Varieties.

Right - A Twice Nightly Variety Programme for the Stratford Empire for the week of May 4th, 1908 - On the Bill were Canny Neil Kenyon, Harry Simms, Billy McClain & Co, John Warren, Wiliam, Lee, & Helen Bentley, Ray Maskell, Mddle Eldee, Ethel Bourne, and the American Bioscope and 'The Globe of Life' - The Programme is part of a collection of material from Ethel Bourne and Mona Garrick who were solo performers but also performed as part of their family act 'The Five Sisters', see card below.

It will be conducted on the two houses a-night principle - that is to say, two performances each evening will be given, the same artists appearing at both, the first beginning at half-past six and finishing at half-past eight, and the second opening at nine and concluding at eleven. The hall will be made as attractive and comfortable as those palaces of pleasure situated at the West-end of London, and on the nightly programme will be found the names of leading artists in the variety profession. In fact, everything will be done by the management to make the New Empire worthy of its name and its surroundings.

The building has been erected from designs by Mr W. G. R. Sprague, the well-known theatre architect, of Arundel-street, Strand and the accompanying engraving clearly shows what a handsome and commanding appearance the exterior presents. Surmounting the building and standing out in bold relief is a female figure holding aloft a globe, from which at night-time will stream the brilliant rays of the electric light. Over the main entrance is the date 1899, with symbolical figures on each side. The stage door is reached by a long passage on the left side of the building, where there are numerous exits, so that in the event of a panic occurring the building could be emptied in a very short space of time. The entrances to the better parts of the house are direct from the Broadway up a flight of marble stairs, about 8ft. wide, into a circular vestibule, and thence right and left to the grand circle and fauteuils. There are commodious saloons or lounges to each part of the house.

Left - A Page from a Music Hall Programme for the Stratford Empire from September 1905 showing the Frontage and Auditorium of the Theatre - Courtesy Simon Moss, stagememories.

The auditorium is one of the largest in London, having a depth of 70ft. from the curtain line to the back wall of the pit, with a clear width of 60ft.

The auditorium is constructed entirely without columns, and is completely fireproof. The house is on the two-tier system, consisting on the ground floor of fauteuils, pit stalls, and pit. On the first tier is the grand circle, and on the second tier is the balcony, with the gallery set up above it, forming practically a three-circle house.

The style of decoration throughout is Moresque, the prevailing colours being terra-cotta, gold, and blue. Fine raised promenades are provided on each level, and a feature of the new theatre is a number of pretty boxes at the rear of the grand circle, giving a cosy appearance to the house.

In the roof is a skylight which can be raised for purposes of ventilation and clearing the building of tobacco smoke. The general effect of the decorations is very bright and pretty, while at the same time anything in the nature of garishness has been carefully avoided.

Right - The Five Sisters - From an early Postcard and part of a collection of material from Ethel Bourne, a contralto vocalist, and Mona Garrick, a character actress, who often appeared individually or as part of their family act 'The Five Sisters' who appeared at the Stratford Empire in 1908.

From every seat in the house an uninterrupted view of the stage can be obtained, an advantage that will be greatly appreciated by the patrons of the new place of amusement. The rake is also very satisfactory.

All modern appliances have been taken advantage of, such as hot water heating, hydrants, a fire-proof curtain, and electric lighting throughout; also an installation of gas in case of a temporary break down of the electric light. The stage is 40ft. deep and 70ft. wide, with a height of 55ft. to the grid. This will allow of the most elaborate pieces being staged. The contractors are Messrs George Longden and Sons, Sheffield; the decorations are by the Plastic Decoration Company, the hydrants and fire appliances are supplied by Messrs Merry weather and Sons, the steel work by Messrs Whitford and Co., the heating, gas, installations, and electric lighting by Messrs Strode and Co.; the furniture by Messrs Wolfe and Hollander. Mr Price is the clerk of the works, and Mr Fred Kennedy has charge of the press department.'

The above text in quotes was first published in the ERA, 25 of March 1899.

Above - A Twice Nightly Variety Programme for the Stratford Empire for the week of May 4th, 1908 - On the Bill were Canny Neil Kenyon, Harry Simms, Billy McClain & Co, John Warren, Wiliam, Lee, & Helen Bentley, Ray Maskell, Mddle Eldee, Ethel Bourne, and the American Bioscope and 'The Globe of Life' - The Programme is part of a collection of material from Ethel Bourne and Mona Garrick who were solo performers but also performed as part of their family act 'The Five Sisters', see card above.

The ERA printed a review of the opening variety production at the new Empire Palace in their 8th of April 1899 edition saying:- 'The Stratford Empire enterprise was very successfully launched on Monday evening, when, in the presence of the Mayor and Corporation of the town, and of numerous gentlemen distinguished in the variety world, an orderly and superior-class audience, cramming every available nook and cranny, broke out into hearty and sustained cheers and exclamations of satisfaction at the beautiful establishment with which they had been provided. Similar enthusiasm has been manifested throughout the week, the holding capacity of the auditorium being thoroughly tested at every performance.

The entertainment which the Stratford public are invited to enjoy - and which is directed by the courteous acting-manager, Mr S. Gething, late of the Metropole at Glasgow - is one of premier pattern. Eugen Sandow receives an ovation when his muscular figure is observed on the pedestal, and expressions of wonder are everywhere heard during the exposition of the athlete's marvelous physical development. In a scene representing a Roman amphitheatre, Sandow afterwards takes hold of bar-bells and dumb-bells of extraordinary weight, one of which he balances on his knees while on another a stalwart attendant is swung to and fro. Other astounding feats are performed by this modern Hercules, who, later, seated on the haunches of a horse, bends backwards, lifts a man from the ground up over his head, and seats him astride on the horse's back. As a specimen of finger-strength Sandow tears in halves one and two packs of playing cards, his last effort being to separate no less than 154 cards. Sandow is encored again and again, and his performance is discussed with eager astonishment long after he has left the stage.

The programme is not without a sketch, and it is that wildly farcical one that has left its merry mark everywhere it has been performed, namely, Between the Turns. The talented author, Mr Mark Melford, appears in the part of the embarrassed solicitor, and his finished methods and his droll sayings and doings never fail of their intention, the house being moved to one continuous peal of laughter during the progress of the piece.

Miss Ruby Verdi, who made herself a warm favourite as Cinderella in the local Borough Theatre pantomime, well employs her pretty voice in "Just like the world outside," and does a neat characteristic dance. The tuneful singing of the Gotham Comedy Quartet, contrasted with their eccentric get-up and funniosities, takes the house by storm. They begin with a concerted setting of "Say Au Revoir," which merges into a merry carol of "Four jolly Irishmen." There is also a solo, with humming accompaniment, that might be called "Just break the news to mother," that is greeted with unbounded applause, and the talented singers are brought back many times in answer to approving cheers.

The ventriloquial arts of Colby and Way create amusement, the dancing of Miss May as the very realistic doll being viewed with pleasure. The wee Sisters Webster are heard in a lively lovers' quarrel, and Mr J. S Thomas, who possesses a good tenor voice, gains much admiration for his expressive singing of "The Death of Nelson " and Alice, where art thou? " The skillful piano playing of M. and Madame Borelli is greeted with approval, the clever and ludicrous burlesque of a selection from Il Trovatore causing considerable merriment; and the programme also comprises Mr Edgar Granville, the favourite singing and patter comedian, and Mora and Lola, musical artistes.

Some particularly fine cloths from the brushes of Mr Walter Harm, Mr Frederick Fox, the regular scenic artist, and Mr J. B. Parker are unfolded in the course of the evening, and a very capable band of about sixteen performers is admirably led by Mr Augustus Greco.'

The above text in quotes was first published in the ERA, 8th of April 1899.

Later in the year a hearing was heard concerning the licencing of the Stratford Empire for stage plays, music, and dancing, and also for a licence to sell alcohol, a report of the application, carried in the ERA of the 7th of October 1899 reads:- 'Mr G. A. Riddell applied to the West Ham Town Council at a special meeting on Tuesday, for the renewal of the licence for stage plays and music and dancing, made by Mr Oswald Stoll, for the Stratford Empire, Broadway, Stratford. He said that last year, when the licence was granted, there was an ignorance of Mr Stoll's intentions, and a restriction was imposed forbidding the sale of drink on the premises. Mr Stoll, who now asked for the removal of the restriction, did not propose to sell drink throughout the house as was done in many of the London music halls; but he asked to be permitted to sell refreshments in the saloons, which would be separated from the auditorium. The application was made in order to meet the express desire of many visitors to the place, and he might assure the council that in all towns where Mr Stoll had public entertainments they had been conducted in a manner that in every case had brought forth expressions of the strong approbation of the powers that be. The application was not made with any intention to increase the business, Mr Stoll's great desire being to provide an entertainment to please the public, and he felt that it was a hardship on his patrons that they should be compelled to leave the house to get what reasonable refreshments they might require. Each of the two entertainments per night occupied an hour and fifty minutes. The entertainments, as many members of the council knew, were of a high-class character, and many of those who came to see them had commented on the fact that they could not get refreshments in the house. In answer to a question Mr Riddell said that if a licence for music and dancing only, without stage plays, were granted the result would be disastrous to the house. The judges were not decided in their own minds on the law as to what was a stage play; the law was in a nebulous condition, and a decision of a judge might depend on what he had for breakfast. The council went into committee to consider this with the other applications, and after sitting nearly two hours in camera, they announced their decisions. The application for the renewal of the licence for the Stratford Empire was granted, but the request that the restriction as to the sale of drink be removed was refused.'

The above text in quotes was first published in the ERA, 7th of October 1899.

Arthur Lloyd is known to have performed at the Stratford Empire Theatre in its opening year, in August 1899, see cutting below.

Above - A notice in the ERA of the 26th of August 1899, just five months after the Stratford Empire was built, reads 'Mr. Arthur Lloyd the Original Arthur Lloyd, an Immense Success with Son and Daughter at New Empires, Stratford and New-cross, The Bedford.'

The Empire Palace Theatre, Stratford East had first opened in 1899 and went on to be a successful Variety Theatre for many years. It was Managed by John Somers for its final 26 years.

Right A Google StreetView Image of Empire House on the site of the former Empire Theatre, Stratford in July 2008 - Click to Interact.

Sadly the Theatre became a victim of the Second World War when it was bombed in October 1940. A direct hit by a German bomb caused irreparable damage to the Theatre and it then stood empty and derelict for years until it was finally demolished in 1958. The site was then used for the erection of an office building appropriately named Empire House, shown above right. A later building, erected on the site in 2014, can be seen in the image below. After it was bombed the Theatre's last Manager, John Somers, who had once been Manager of Harry Tate's Company, went on to become Manager of the Leeds Empire until he retired in 1952.

Above - A Google StreetView Image of the site of the former Empire Theatre, Stratford in December 2020 - Click to Interact.

If you have any more images for this Theatre that you are willing to share please Contact me.

The Broadway Theatre, 4, Tramway Avenue, Stratford East

Later - The Gaumont Cinema

Above - The Broadway Theatre, Stratford East - From the Kinematograph Weekly, 29th of December 1927.

The Broadway Theatre was situated on Tramway Avenue in Stratford East and first opened on the 22nd of December 1927 with a showing of the films 'Casey at the Bat' and 'Mother Machree' along with a variety show on the Theatre's Stage, all accompanied by the installed Wurlitzer Theatre Organ, which could rise from the orchestra pit in front of the stage, and the Theatre's own Symphony Orchestra. The Theatre was built for the Hyams Brothers by Thomas and Edge and designed by the well known Theatre Architect George Coles in the Adam Style with an auditorium capable of housing 3,000 people when standing room was taken into consideration. The Theatre also had a large Tea Lounge situated at the back of the Circle and a Roof Garden area for when the weather was good enough for having tea outside. The Theatre had a large fully equipped Stage with a 43 foot proscenium opening, with an orchestra pit for for 30 musicians, along with dressing rooms for artistes.

Right - An Advertisement for the Wurlitzer Organ at the Broadway Theatre, Stratford - From The Bioscope, 29th of December 1927.

Although the Theatre officially opened on the 22nd of December 1927 it was host to a Royal Opening a few days earlier on Tuesday the 20th of December when the Prince of Wales was present along with a packed audience. The Theatre opened at 8pm and the audience were entertained by the Welsh Guards on stage and then joined in with community singing. The POW arrived at 9.45 and gave a short speech about the opening and then the audience were entertained by the Plaza Tiller Girls direct from the Plaza Theatre in the West End, and a sketch entitled 'Disorderly Room' by Tommy Handley and Company. After this the Hitchcock film 'The Ring' was shown on the Theatre's Cinema Screen. Also in the audience for this Royal Opening were the Chairman of the British Legion, Colonel Crosfield, and the Mayor and Mayoress of West Ham, along with the Mayors of East Ham, Stepney, Leyton, and Bethnal Green.

The Kinematograph Weekly reported on the new Broadway Theatre in their 29th of December 1927 edition saying:- 'It is warm praise to receive the commendation of a prominent American exhibitor that one's kinema is equal to a "Broadway house," but the Hyams family are deservedly entitled to the cachet in respect of their new super building at Stratford Broadway.

Erected at a cost of £160.000, to the plans of George Coles, F.R.I.B.A., by Thomas and Edge, the builders, the Broadway Kinema is the "last word." Major C.H.Bell, O.B.E., was retained as consulting engineer, and C.J. Feesney represented the builders during the forty weeks of the construction of the kinema. Steelwork was by Rubery, Owen and Co.

The house is situated in a populous neighbourhood, and an attractive sign in the Neon lighting draws attention to the "broad way to entertainment." The entrance vestibule is in the Roman period of architecture, and a very spacious area gives place to sweeping staircases which lead to the auditorium. Vitreous mosaic borders and flooring were laid down by the Rust's Vitreous Mosaic and Tile Co., and, in fact, general use is made of the rubber type of floor covering. The marble plinths in the vestibule, Belgian granite facings and Roman stone paving, were the work of Anselm, Odling and Sons. The colour scheme is cream, picked out in old gold.

Right - Auditorium Features of the Broadway Theatre, Stratford East - From the Kinematograph Weekly, 5th of January 1927.

The interior of the house presents a very striking appearance. It is more akin to the inside of a modern music-hall, with full-size stage and orchestra-well. There is a very steep rake to the floor of the house, giving an uninterrupted view of the stage and screen. All the seats are tip-up, and were supplied by Lazarus in a uniform blue colour. An ambulatory around the inside of the house provides spacious accommodation for "standing room."

The stage, with its 43-foot proscenium opening, is equipped as fully as that of any theatre in Europe in the matter of multi colour lighting, the latest appliances for the rapid changing of scenes, automatic signalling apparatus for control of scenery, fire curtain, and the three screens. The lighting of the stage alone involves the use of over 3,000 lamps and 20 spot effect units. Eight suspended lanterns provide a particularly restful light, which, of course, is capable of producing different colour-schemes. The Berkeley Electrical Engineering Co. carried out the electrical work. A novel decorative effect has been introduced, somewhat similar to that seen in American houses, by the play of coloured lights in six water scenes set, three each side of the walls of the auditorium, which produces the illusion of water actually falling or flowing.

The operating chamber, at the rear of the circle, contains four Simplex machines and two "limes," and is fitted with every modern device. The "throw" is 157 feet. At the rear of the circle is the tea lounge, which will be open to the patrons of the kinema and the general public. The Acme Flooring and Paving Co. were responsible for the Bagac flooring to the stage and tea room. During the summer months teas and light refreshments will be served on the roof garden.

Above - The Ventilating Plant at the Broadway Theatre, Stratford - From the Kinematograph Weekly, 5th of January 1927.

The whole building is heated and ventilated by means of a large air-conditioning plant installed by the Carrier Engineering co. The air is brought into a chamber specially erected on the roof to house this plant, where it is washed and warmed before being propelled into the theatre through gratings in the ceiling of the auditorium. Vitiated atmosphere is by this means kept down and forced out through gratings in the floor. This follows the latest approved method of ventilation, and it is claimed that with this system draughts are unknown, and the atmosphere remains sweet and pure, no matter how crowded the house may be.

Reference has already been made to the orchestra-well, which is fully equipped for 30 musicians, who wear a specially distinctive uniform which provides a very effective setting when the members appear on the stage in musical interludes. The Wurlitzer organ is a prominent feature of the musical amenities, and is similar in every respect to the Plaza installation.

The house staff have a particularly attractive blue uniform, and the girls are dressed somewhat as the Plaza staff. The designs were specially conceived by Harild's, who were also responsible for the uniforms of the orchestra.

Right - The Large Tea Lounge at the Broadway Theatre, Stratford East - From Kinematograph Weekly, 2nd of May 1929.

The owners are Mrs. Jessie Hyams, Philip Hyams and Sid Hyams, who, by reason of their long experience of kinema entertainment, have made themselves thoroughly familiar with the requirements of the patrons of today. The management have adopted a kine-variety policy, and no seat during the afternoon performance is above one shilling, and in the evening two shillings is the highest price that may he paid for a seat. There is accommodation for over 3,000 persons. Francis A. Mangan is responsible for the presentations, and has already conceived several pleasing effects. The lighting and stage arrangements display his master mind. The full orchestra of 26 performers is under the direction of Joseph Muscant, and a special feature will be made of the musical side of the programme. Archie Parkhouse is in control of the Wurlitzer organ, and, mounted on a rising platform, he appears in full view of the audience during the recitals.'

The above text in quotes was first published in the Kinematograph Weekly, 2th of December 1927.

Above - A Google StreetView Image showing the site of the former Broadway Theatre / Gaumont Cinema, Stratford East in April 2021 - Click to Interact.

The Broadway Theatre had opened on the 22nd of December 1927 but the following year in March 1928 it was taken over by Gaumont British Cinemas who would rename it Gaumont in November that year. The Theatre then continued in operation by Gaumont until it was bombed during the war in September 1940. Repairs were then carried out but it was hit again, this time by a high explosive bomb on the 12th of October 1940 in the same raid that completely destroyed the nearby Empire Theatre. After more repairs the Gaumont Cinema did finally reopen on the 4th of August 1941.

Just 20 years later the Rank Organisation, who then ran the Cinema, would close the Gaumont on the 26th of November 1960 and that was to be the end of this Theatre's entertainment career. It was then put to use as a factory for Arco Rewind Ltd., until October 1977 when it closed, leaving only the foyer in use as a gym for a few more years. Amazingly the building still stood, mostly unused, until it was eventually demolished in 1990.

There are some very good photographs of the Broadway Theatre through the years here.

If you have any more images for this Theatre that you are willing to share please Contact me.

The Grove Picture House, Stratford East

Above - The former Grove Picture House, Stratford East in September 2014 - Courtesy Paul Bland

The Grove Picture House was built by the Frazzi Fireproof Construction Company Ltd., and opened in 1910. It was one of the earliest Cinema buildings in the Country.

Right - A detail of the facade of the former Grove Picture House, Stratford East in September 2014 - Courtesy Paul Bland.

The ticket office was in the centre of the facade and can still be seen today, indeed the facade of the building is still as it was in 1910 (see photographs above and below).

The Cinema was later converted into a Billiard Hall but is today in use as a Health Centre.

If you have any more images for this Theatre that you are willing to share please Contact me.

Above - An early photograph of the Grove Picture House, Stratford - From an advertisement for Frazzi Fireproof Construction Ltd., reproduced in the Cinema News and Property Gazette in February 1912.

Above - The former Grove Picture House, Stratford East in September 2014 - Courtesy Paul Bland

The Picturehouse, Gerry Raffles Square, Stratford East

Above - The Picturehouse Cinema complex on Gerry Raffles Square, Stratford East in August 2009 - Photo M.L.

The Picturehouse Cinema complex on Gerry Raffles Square was built in a modern Art Deco style with four screens by the architectural company Burrell Foley & Fischer. The Complex, which forms part of a major modernisation of this site which also includes the 1884 Theatre Royal, opened in August 1997.

You make like to visit the Picturehouse's own website here.

Above - The Picturehouse Cinema complex on Gerry Raffles Square, Stratford East in September 2014 - Courtesy Paul Bland

Archive newspaper reports on this page were collated and kindly sent in for inclusion by B.F.